Bureau of Codes

David Patton | Director of Codes Enforcement

The Bureau of Codes is responsible for the enforcement of building construction, electrical standards, plumbing, health and sanitation, and property maintenance codes for residential and commercial structures.

Building/Fire/Zoning

Property Complaint

About Us

The Building Inspector, through the Codes Administrator, enforces the building codes on all construction activity for new construction and rehabilitation work on all commercial and residential structures.

The Codes Enforcement Officers inspect for code violations in existing structures and vacant lots, including but not limited to, high grass and weeds, sanitation, plumbing, heating, electrical, vector problems and structural violations.

The Bureau processes all permits relating to building construction, electrical and plumbing work, as well as assisting with zoning compliance. The Bureau also issues licenses for electricians, plumbers, and rooming houses. The building, electrical and plumbing inspectors perform progressive inspections on new construction, rehabilitation, and alteration projects.

The Bureau inspects properties for sale if requested, under the buyer notification ordinance to make buyers aware of any deficiencies and inspects rental properties to enforce the quality of life standards for City residents who rent.

The Bureau enforces all state and local health code provisions relating to food establishments and also lead-based paint hazards in residential structures. Health licenses are issued for all food establishments. The Bureau also promotes community interaction programs, which provide citizen involvement in codes-related procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who do I call for heating complaints?

For heating complaints, you can contact the Codes Administration Office by dialing 717-255-3040. At which time, the codes inspector will contact the landlord who will be given 24 hours to provide some form of heating. A landlord/tenant complaint form is not required for heating complaints. The heat season is from October 1 to May 15th. FYI: Heating complaints are handled almost immediately.

What if I have mold in the property I rent?

Currently there in no specific City or State regulation regarding mold issues. However, upon receipt of a Tenant/landlord Complaint form, the Codes Bureau will investigate a possible source contributing to the mold issue such as a possible leak.

Do I need a permit to do work on my property?

Yes. If a property owner is making any structural repairs as well as major repairs, rehabilitation, alterations and new construction regardless of the cost of improvements. A permit is not required for nonstructural improvements that do not exceed $1,000 for the total cost of improvements. We recommend the owner to call the Codes Bureau to assess his or her needs for a building permit and appropriate fees.

As owner of the property, can I work on my own electrical and plumbing?

An owner may perform minor repairs such as the replacement of fixtures or other minor repairs of the electrical and plumbing systems. We recommend you contact the Codes Bureau for specific questions relating to electrical and plumbing permit requirements.

About Us

Harrisburg is a town with a rich history that spans more than 200 years. As the capital of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, we attract thousands of people to our city to live, work and play.